Welcome to 'Exploring Finance at UVA'! This is a recurring blog feature highlighting finance professionals from across Grounds, beyond UVAFinance. Meet a diverse array of staff members and delve into their roles and insights in the world of finance within the greater UVA framework.
If you or someone you know would like to be featured in Exploring Finance at UVA, please email bv8h@virginia.edu
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| Beth Grimm |
How would you describe your job in simple terms?
I handle a wide range of tasks, but primarily I focus on managing non-grant accounts that fund research, like gifts, Facilities & Administrative costs, and endowments. I ensure that the funds are available when needed. I also handle transfers to activity codes and other related tasks. Another part of my job is exercising signature authority, meaning I approve pre- and post-award grant items, such as proposals and amendments. If something goes wrong, I'm like a bloodhound- I'm the one tracking it down!
Who do you work with most frequently in UVAFinance?
I work a lot with folks connected to F&A, like Andrew McGehee. I also collaborate with people in the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) to clean up accounts and make sure we're not using ones we shouldn't be. It's all about keeping things tidy and compliant.
What does the rhythm of your work look like? Do you have a busy season?
Honestly, everything feels busy! A lot of what I do is tied to grant submissions and approvals. For example, we deal with multiple NIH grant deadlines each month, which keeps things hopping. On top of that, foundations accept applications year-round, and our junior faculty are always applying. Even when it looks like things might slow down, something always comes up. I also manage F&A agreements between departments and reconcile what we owe each month, plus I run deficit reports that we send out for review. We've really streamlined things with tools like QlikSense, which makes reporting cleaner and more concise for everyone.
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| Beth and her main man, TJ! |
Definitely the people. I get to interact with a variety of individuals, from grant administrators and finance people to faculty. I enjoy the diversity and collaboration across the board.
How does your work contribute to UVA's mission?
My work directly supports the research mission of the University, and indirectly, the healthcare mission too. A lot of our research involves clinical trials, so we're playing a role in that bigger picture.
Anything fun or interesting about your team?
We're a quirky, eclectic group, as Kim said. We each manage different types of accounts, but it all comes together like a well-oiled machine. Some of us focus on foundation money, others on making sure funds are in the right cost centers for use. We've also gotten good at journal transfers, PAAs, and updating cost allocations. If someone's having trouble, I'm usually the one they call; my specialties are helping with salary over the cap or fixing effort reports!